Lockdown Jazz Sessions are fortnightly gigs performed by musicians from their own homes. Using zoom, the audience has the chance to be present and together at the online gig, even unmuting themselves to applaud.

First Set: Alex Merritt + Freddie Jensen

'This duo set brings together acclaimed tenor saxophonist and composer Alex Merritt and gifted young bass player Freddie Jensen (Alex Ridout, Sean Payne). Alex and Freddie started playing together a couple of years ago as part of Alex's residency at the time at The Geldart in Cambridge, where Freddie is currently finishing his Maths undergraduate. At the recommendation of Gareth Lockrane, Alex gave Freddie a call and they connected so well musically that have played lots since in both trio with Joshua Blackmore and, most recently, at last years London Jazz Festival in a quintet that also featured Miriam Ast on vocals, pianist Sam Leak and Dave Hamblett on drums.

Influences from contemporary jazz, classical music and free improvisation will combine in this set in exciting ways as the pair play originals and arrangements specifically honed for this, lockdown- friendly, duo performance. There will be explorations of some of Alex's original music, arrangements of Olivier Messiaen, Charlie Parker and some standards also. They will be streaming from their place of work, 'The Shed', in Cambridge and it's is going to be a lot of fun! We hope to see you there :)'

Second Set: Huw Warren & Ian Ballamy

ECM recording artist Iain Ballamy is internationally recognised as a saxophonist and composer. He has been described variously as urbane, original, melodic, freethinking and uncompromising. Listed in the BBC’s publication ‘100 Jazz Greats’ between Count Basie and Chet Baker his work is contemporary with both strong jazz and classical references and yet un-encumbered by formality and tradition. Over 3 decades spent transcending musical genres and stereotypes and gradually forging strong and ongoing relationships with musicians around the globe, Ballamy has worked with many cutting-edge figures of today’s contemporary jazz scene.

Welsh pianist and composer Huw Warren has achieved an international reputation for innovative and eclectic music making over a thirty year career. Equally at home crossing the often exclusive worlds of Jazz, World and Contemporary music; he has a distinctive and personal voice, and has collaborated with a huge variety of artists worldwide. Huw has recorded 2 albums for ECM (as Quercus with June Tabor and Iain Ballamy) and in 2018 released a solo piano recording Nocturnes and Visions. In 2019 he will release 2 albums for CAM Jazz Everything in Between (with Dudley Phillips and Zoot Warren) and New Day (with Mark Lockheart) His previous albums and projects have included themes and source material as diverse as John Dowland, Plainchant and Hermeto Pascoal. His writing style combines quirky rhythmic grooves with simple melodic beauty; and manages to be both complex and approachable.

How does a Lockdown Jazz Session Work?

Upon buying a ticket you will receive a link to click on when the event starts which will take you into a zoom call. You will see Robyn the host, the musicians performing and some of the other audience members. You may share your video and say hello, even unmute yourself to clap between songs, but you are also welcome to listen and watch without being visible. Everyone but the performer is muted during the music.

7-7.15pm: Session opens, audience joins

7.15-7.45pm: First Set

7.45-8pm: Interval

8-8.30pm: Second Set

Tickets are £5 Concession, £10 Standard and £15 Support.

We are offering free tickets to those who cannot afford to buy them at the moment, if you would like to join us but do not have the funds then please email saying so using the contact button below. You don't need to explain why you need the free ticket.